Hoya rotundiflora aka Hoya Rotundiflora

Hoya rotundiflora is a compact, wiry climbing vine that can reach 2-6 meters (6-20 feet) in length depending on growing conditions and support. Indoors, it typically grows more compactly, making it suitable for hanging baskets and small trellises. The small, rectangular leaves measure 1-4cm in length, with aerial roots appearing every few centimeters along the stems to help the plant anchor and absorb nutrients.

Hoya rotundiflora thrives in temperatures between 65-95°F (18-35°C), with an ideal range of 70-80°F (21-27°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 55-60°F (13-15°C) but will not survive frost. Originating from tropical Myanmar, it prefers warm daytime temperatures and slightly cooler nights, which can help encourage blooming. Keep away from cold drafts and heating vents.

Hoya rotundiflora produces stunning umbels containing up to 15 star-shaped flowers during spring and summer. The blooms feature reflexed white corolla lobes with a white-cream corona that flushes to rose pink toward the center. The flowers have a distinctive velvety, fuzzy texture from tiny surface hairs. Like all Hoyas, the flowers grow from permanent spurs on the stems—avoid removing these as new blooms will emerge from the same locations each season.

Yes, Hoya rotundiflora produces sweetly fragrant flowers. The blooms emit a pleasant, sweet scent that is most noticeable during the spring and summer flowering period. The fragrance is described as heavy and sweet, typical of many Hoya species. The scent may be more pronounced in the evening hours.

Hoya rotundiflora propagates easily from stem cuttings. Take cuttings that include at least one node (where leaves emerge from the stem) and allow the cut end to callus for about 12 hours before placing in water or moist potting mix. Root development typically takes 2-4 weeks. Watch for root rot in water propagations—if stems turn black and mushy, trim the affected portion, let it callus again, and retry. Seeds can also be used but are less commonly available.

Prune Hoya rotundiflora sparingly. The most important rule is to never remove the flower spurs (peduncles)—these woody stubs produce flowers repeatedly over many seasons. Light pruning to control shape and encourage bushier growth is acceptable. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and trim leggy stems if desired. Spring is the best time for any significant pruning, before the active growing season.

Hoya rotundiflora prefers being slightly root-bound and only needs repotting every 2-3 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes. Repot in spring at the start of the growing season. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one, as oversized pots retain excess moisture and increase root rot risk. Use well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark.

Hoya rotundiflora can grow outdoors year-round in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 (and potentially zone 9b with protection). In the United States, this includes southern Florida, Hawaii, and parts of California and Arizona. The plant cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 50°F (10°C). In cooler climates, it can be grown outdoors in summer but must be brought indoors before temperatures drop in fall.

Yellow leaves on Hoya rotundiflora are most commonly caused by overwatering and root rot—if multiple leaves yellow at once and feel soft or mushy, check the roots and reduce watering. Underwatering causes individual leaves to yellow with dry, crispy edges. Nutrient deficiency shows as yellowing starting from lower leaves and moving upward; a balanced fertilizer can help. Occasionally, natural leaf aging causes older leaves to yellow and drop.

Brown, crispy leaf tips and edges on Hoya rotundiflora typically indicate low humidity. As a tropical plant, it prefers humidity levels above 60%. Increase humidity using a pebble tray, humidifier, or by grouping plants together. Sunburn from too much direct light can also cause brown patches. Additionally, fertilizer burn from over-feeding or salt buildup can create brown tips—flush the soil periodically with clean water.

Drooping in Hoya rotundiflora is most often caused by watering issues. Overwatering leads to root rot, which prevents the plant from absorbing water properly, causing wilting despite wet soil. Underwatering also causes drooping, but the leaves will feel dry and lightweight. Check the soil moisture and roots before watering. Temperature stress from cold drafts or extreme heat can also cause temporary drooping.

Common pests include mealybugs (white, fuzzy clusters), aphids (soft-bodied insects causing leaf curling), scale insects (brown bumps on stems), and spider mites (indicated by fine webbing). Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or rubbing alcohol. Fungal issues include root rot from overwatering, powdery mildew (white powdery coating), and leaf spot (brown or black spots). Prevent disease by ensuring good drainage, adequate air circulation, and avoiding wet foliage.

Clean Hoya rotundiflora leaves periodically to remove dust and maintain their waxy appearance. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or give the plant a lukewarm shower. Avoid using leaf shine products as they can clog the leaf pores. The small, waxy leaves generally stay clean, but dust accumulation can reduce photosynthesis. Clean leaves also help prevent pest infestations by removing eggs and debris.

Hoya Rotundiflora requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Hoya Rotundiflora’s native range is Southeast Asia and Australia.

Hoya Rotundiflora does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Hoya Rotundiflora loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Hoya Rotundiflora requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Hoya Rotundiflora will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

The Hoya Rotundiflora is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Hoya Rotundiflora should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Hoya Rotundiflora to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.